Which stage comes first in Erikson's psychosocial development?

In Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, the first stage is Trust vs. Mistrust, which occurs in infancy, typically from birth to about 18 months. This stage emphasizes the importance of the infant's first experiences with caregivers. If caregivers provide reliable care and affection, the infant develops a sense of trust, which lays the foundation for future relationships and emotional stability. Alternatively, if the care is inconsistent or neglectful, mistrust can develop, impacting the individual's ability to form secure relationships later in life.

The other stages mentioned, such as Identity vs. Role Confusion, Generativity vs. Stagnation, and Intimacy vs. Isolation, occur in later life stages according to Erikson's model. Trust vs. Mistrust is critical because it is the first developmental challenge that sets the tone for all subsequent stages, making it fundamental to the overall psychosocial development process. Understanding this foundation is key to grasping how individuals navigate their social relationships in later life.